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An abscess may be so deep that it may not surface for a long time. Others, such as those of acne, are caused by plugged sweat glands that become infected. Boils and carbuncles are more likely to develop in those with:- Diabetes, especially when treated by injected insulin
- Alcoholism or drug abuse
- Poor personal hygiene
- Crowded living arrangements
- Jobs or hobbies that expose them to greasy or oily substances, especially petroleum products
- Allergies or immune system disorders, including HIV infection
- Family members with recurrent skin infections
Over time, the area becomes firm and hard. Eventually, the center of the abscess softens; the pus forms a "head" and drains out through the skin. Since releasing the pus in a boil can lead to more infection, puncturing it at home is not usually advised.
Antibiotics may be prescribed to stop the infection. Medications such as isotretinoin (Accutane) can be used for cystic acne; this has been helpful for some patients with hidradenitis suppurativa. Practicing good hygiene habits minimizes the frequency of recurring boils and prevents the spread of infection. Antibacterial soaps may help prevent bacteria build up on the skin and therefore reduce the chance for an abscess to form.
Prognosis; Seek medical attention if
Boils may take from 10 to 25 days to heal. In most cases, a boil will not heal until it bursts and drains. You should also see a doctor if:- a boil develops in a child or a sick or elderly person
- a boil develops on the face near the eyes or nose
- a boil becomes extremely large or painful
- a cluster of boils form or you have an abscess
- boils become increasingly common
- red lines spread out from the center of the boil
- the boil is extremely tender
- fever and chills develop
- lymph nodes begin to swell that are located in other areas of the body from where the original lymph node swelling occurred.
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